In a significant effort to make roads safer, Avon and Somerset Police arrested 324 drivers for driving under the influence of drink and/or drugs during a national policing operation in December.

This figure represents a 10 per cent increase from the previous year, with 68 per cent of the offences related to drink driving and 32 per cent to drug driving.

The operation involved around 2000 drivers being stopped through various means, including stop check sites, intelligence-led operations, public reports, and proactive patrols.

Community intelligence played a crucial role in this strategy, with the public encouraged to report suspected cases of intoxicated driving.

Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall said: "Over the festive period, 324 drivers have been taken off the road before they could cause harm through drink or drug driving.

"Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal, but also a reckless and dangerous choice that puts lives at risk. The consequences of such decisions can be catastrophic, causing irreversible harm and heartache to families and loved ones.

"I would like to thank the public who are helping us to target those people that they suspect are drink or drug driving. By doing this, you are helping us to reinforce the message that getting behind the wheel while under the influence is never acceptable. Together we are keeping the roads of Avon and Somerset safer."

"I would also like to acknowledge the hard work of our teams who work tirelessly to keep our roads safe, and will continue to do so throughout the year."

The operation revealed that the highest number of arrests were among those aged 25-34 (30 per cent), followed by the 35-44 age group (26 per cent). The Bristol area accounted for 27 per cent of the arrests, with Somerset West and South Gloucestershire also seeing significant numbers.

Drivers caught driving above the legal limit face severe penalties, including up to six months' imprisonment, an unlimited fine, and a substantial driving ban. The most serious offence of causing death by careless driving under the influence can result in life imprisonment.